McCarthy gives backing to Jarvis

Mick McCarthy insists he did not axe winger Matt Jarvis last weekend and has tipped him as a major contender for the club's player of the year award.

McCarthy is adamant he rested Jarvis for last weekend's derby clash with West Brom at Molineux after a demanding season.

But he still believes the 24-year-old has been one of his side's top performers throughout the campaign, saying: "'Jarvo' has had a great season, he's been fantastic. He's more than a contender for player of the season."

He added: "But he's like everyone else. You can't just perform on the pitch every weekend.

"Because I am loyal to players and stay with them through difficult times and difficult performances, why is it then said that I've dropped them?

"With others it's called 'squad rotation' where players are left out because they're a little bit tired and need a rest.

"Because I'm very loyal to players it seems when I do it it's taken as an exception.

"Some players have played a lot of games and it's a tough old league. Everybody's time will come again."